Conceptualization and Realization of a National Trail in a Small Island-Nation: The Commonwealth of Dominica’s Experience

The island-nation of Dominica, 790 km2 in area, is located approximately 1126.5 km Southeast Florida, USA. In the mid-1990s, Dominica embarked on developing 183.5 Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT), first and only national trail model Eastern Caribbean. 14-segment WNT, officially opened May 2013, passes through some island’s most diverse landscapes. WNT was designed to link as many rural communities possible promote ecotourism community socioeconomic development. Rehabilitation work continues rest following devastation caused by Hurricane Maria 2017. This article, based primarily a limited questionnaire survey, selected interviews, literature review, explored research question ‘What were challenges faced small-island nation development Trail? Five specific objectives focused conceptualization, implementation challenges, partnerships fostered, sub-regional significance, future outlook considered. Questionnaire respondents identified topography negotiations with private landowners significant construction challenges. A 100% survey anticipate that reliable funding support timely maintenance would likely be critical issue. Some marketing, public engagement, visitor safety potential issues. Face-to-face interviews found strong for WNT. interviewees confident realize sustainable benefits from Trail. article concludes lessons learned proposes strategies themes ensure Trail’s sustainability.